Therefore, different combinations of antibody and T-cell immunity may be needed for control of infection and recovery from encephalitis depending on the parts of the brain or spinal cord that are infected," added Dr.

Based on the findings of the study "prevention of the spread of HSV to neonates and sexual partners will require the identification and control of infection in persons with subclinical" or unrecognized infection, the researchers said.

SRI's medical director and consultant microbiologist Dr James McGavigan said: "We regret that this infection has spread to a small number of other patients and we have already undertaken an in-depth review of our control of infection procedures in this ward.

Dover said new drug therapy for sickle cell, including wider use of hydroxyurea in the last year, and the better control of infections and other complications of the disease had increased both the life span and the quality of life for many sickle cell patients with fewer risks than marrow transplants.